Understanding the needs of older merchant navy veterans: interim report

The Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report 2015 recognised the role played by members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and Merchant Navy (MN) in armed conflict, and therefore their place as veterans. Although there has been some research on the numbers and needs of former MN seafarers and their dependants, relatively little is known about their needs or the effectiveness of any services specifically developed to meet those needs. This interim report presents findings from the first stage of research commissioned by Seafarers UK and Nautilus which aims to better define and understand the health and social care needs of MN veterans and their dependants, and how these are currently being met. The results of this project will help to inform future developments in services as well as raise awareness of the potential veteran status of Merchant Navy seafarers.